Getting help in time is key

Mar. 6, 2013

Mike Hackman is remembered June 25, 2011, as runners take part in Mike's Run, a 5-mile run starting at Jack Hackman Field, to benefit mental health education and outreach in the Marshfield area and organized by his family and the Marshfield Clinic. / Gannett Central Wisconsin Media file photo

Help fight the stigma:Mike’s Run to raise awareness of mental health is set for June 22, 2013. The 5- mile run starts at Jack Hackman Field in Marshfield. The run raises awareness of mental health problems and provides a hopeful message for all people affected by these challenges. Proceeds of event benefit mental health services at Marshfield Clinic, including family resources, support groups and new treatment options. Registration is now open at www.marshfieldclinic.org/mikesrun.

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Shame and stigma remain the most harmful issues in the mental health care field.

While the national conscience seems focused on mental health whenever a violent act captures the world’s attention on cable TV news, the needs of most people are resources for coping with daily and ongoing stressors, the loss of a spouse or relationship, job and untreated depression.

Behavioral health nurse practitioner Michael Field has worked in outpatient treatment of patients suffering anxiety and depression and of more complicated bipolar personality disorder patients of all ages over the past 14 years at Marshfield Clinic in Marshfield.

“What the key is when it gets to the point of significant distress, difficulty functioning, we have to get people help,” Field said.

Access to psychotherapy can mean the difference between someone coping with their problem and avoiding triggers or turning to destructive behaviors.

“My philosphy is you give them tools to help themself,” Field said. Typically prescribed medications shown to stabilize symptoms of mood disorders are combined with psychotherapy.

Field said there is a strong genetic basis to changes in a person’s brain chemistry. And different variables will factor into someone’s imbalance. Most people do not become violent toward others even with untreated depression.

But the greatest harm is the risk of suicide. If you think you or a loved one is susceptible to harming self, talk to the person about getting help.